Page 27 of Billionaire Grump's Baby

10

HAZEL

I’m lounging on my bed in a sweatshirt and old workout shorts, staring at my notebook and trying to come up with a new idea for my next novel. I live in a tiny studio apartment that’s basically all bed and doesn’t have an oven, let alone a full kitchen, but it’s mine.

I used to love spending Saturdays sipping tea, listening to my favorite writing playlist, and jotting down story ideas. But I’ve been at this for over an hour and the page in front of me is still terrifyingly blank.

Maybe you need inspiration,Luke’s voice taunts me.

Someone raps on my door, and I jump.

Maybe one of my packages got mistakenly delivered to the surly goth girl at the end of the hall again.

I open the door, an apology on my lips, but it’s not one of my neighbors.

No, it’s Luke, frowning down at me with disapproval.

“I can’t believe this is where you live,” he says. “It has terrible security. Anyone can just wander in.”

I sigh. “Look, the front door does lock, but you have to really shove it closed and sometimes people forget...why am I explaining this to you? Why are youhere?”

He steps around me and into my apartment without answering either of my questions. His frown deepens as he surveys my bed, bookshelves, and crowded corner where I’ve stashed the microwave, the mini fridge, the toaster oven, and the electric teakettle.

Sarah calls it The Fire Hazard Corner of Death.

I straighten my spine. “I’m a freelance writer living alone in Manhattan. Did you think I lived in a penthouse on Central Park?”

“No but...does Cooper know you live like this?”

I bristle with irritation. Imayhave neglected to mention to my parents and Cooper that my building door doesn’t always lock, and my apartment lacks an oven.

But that’s none of Luke’s business.

I cross my arms. “How did you find out where I live?”

“It’s on your employment paperwork,” Luke says, distracted. I follow his gaze and realize my red lace bra is lying on top of my dresser.

I grab it and shove it inside the top drawer, flustered. “Did you just come here to make fun of me?”

“No,” he gives his head a quick shake, like he’s trying to focus. “My dad’s decided the book isn’t enough. He wants me to get married to someone respectable by the end of the month if he’s going to recommend me for CEO.”

“What?” I blurt. “Luke, that’s insane. You can’t spend the rest of your life in a loveless marriage just for ajob.”

Luke’s smile is grim. “CEO of my family company is more than just a job. It’s the thing I’ve been working toward my whole life.”

My stomach twists as I picture Luke with some boring, prim, high society wife. Someone who won’t try to get to know the complicated man underneath the asshole surface. Someone who will be happy to take his money and sayyes dearand won’t challenge him at all.

I open my mouth to tell him he deserves more than a loveless marriage and a father who makes him jump through hoops, but the last time I tried to get remotely personal with him he bit my head off and shoved me in a cab.

His presence fills the tiny room. Imposing, sexy, and larger than life.

“I just...this doesn’t make sense. Why is it so important to your dad that you get married?” I ask, trying to process this.

“People view married men as more responsible and trustworthy,” Luke says. “Right now, those are two areas where the board finds me lacking. Basically, my getting married is my dad’s plan B to help me win over the board, in case our book doesn’t work.”

“Ok...” I lean against the door, trying to keep as much distance between us as possible. “But why are you telling me about it? Do you want me to...um...interview her too? For the book?” God, I hate that idea. But he’s the boss, so if that’s what he wants I’ll suck it up and be a professional.

His smile turns wicked. “You misunderstand me. I’m not looking for a wife. I’m looking for an accomplice.”

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